BANGKOK, Thailand – The Office of the Consumer Protection Board (OCPB) has emphasized the importance of informed housing decisions and stronger consumer protection during the Smart Home Buying 2026 forum held at the Thammasat Association under Royal Patronage in Bangkok on July 18. Minister Attached to the Prime Minister’s Office Supamas Isarabhakdi assigned Advisor to the Minister Pradermchai Boonchuayluea to preside over the forum, which brought together government agencies, property developers, business operators, and members of the public to discuss consumer rights and safer property purchases. Pradermchai said the OCPB is adopting a proactive approach to prevent consumer problems before they occur while ensuring complaints are handled quickly, transparently, and with progress that can be monitored by affected consumers.
He urged property developers to focus on long-term safety and quality by adopting construction standards that go beyond minimum legal requirements. Some complaints involve issues not clearly covered by existing regulations, including parking structures built without proper foundations, which may later face problems such as subsidence or structural damage after modifications or increased use. The forum provided guidance on evaluating housing projects, understanding contracts, protecting consumer rights, and completing property transfers. Officials said the initiative aims to help buyers make better-informed decisions and reduce the risk of unfair practices in the property market. Pradermchai reaffirmed the OCPB’s commitment to assisting consumers through its website, the OCPB Connect application, and the 1166 hotline. The agency said it will continue working to ensure complaints are addressed fairly, efficiently, and transparently under its proactive consumer protection policy. (NNT)
